An angle grinder is a handheld electrical tool typically used on hard materials for grinding, polishing, sanding, and cutting. It has a rotating blade or wheel on the top of the machine that helps to perform these tasks. However, changing the blade on an angle grinder is often overlooked. Eventually, it’s essential to do so as the blade becomes worn out and needs to be replaced when it reaches its maximum lifespan.
Therefore, changing the blade is mandatory for better performance to extend the tool’s life. Usually, operators are concerned about how to change a blade on an angle grinder as they fear that they might damage the motor or the gearbox. To avoid this, operators must ensure they use the correct tool for the job. Here are some of the main advantages of using angle grinders in the industry:
- Angle grinders are known for high performance and power.
- The tool provides a high surface finish and accuracy with variable pressure.
- Ability to cut any metal at a high velocity, including bolts, angle iron, rebar, and even sheet metal.
Is the Blade of Angle Grinder Interchangeable?
An angle grinder consists of an electric motor and a rotating cutting disk with sharp teeth. The blade is attached to the machine via a shaft and gear system. Generally, the blade has two sides: one side for grinding and the other side for cutting.
Many people believe that the angle grinder blade is not interchangeable. However, this is not true. The angle grinder blade is replaced with other blades or abrasive discs compatible with the same tool. The blades are interchangeable as long as they are of similar size and shape. They also need a similar number of teeth to work properly in the tool.
Ways to Change a Blade on an Angle Grinder
Many users know that changing the blade on an angle grinder can be daunting and time-consuming. However, it is possible to do the job quickly with the right tools. There are some tips to implement while changing the angle grinder blade to prevent damage to the tool and any unnecessary friction between the wheel and material. Here is the step-to-step guide to changing an angle grinder disc.
Step 1 – Disconnect Power Supply
Cordless angle grinders are often used in construction and demolition work. However, when you change the blade on your angle grinder, removing the battery pack from the machine is important before you do so. In addition, if you use a corded angle grinder, disconnect it from the electrical socket. Doing so will reduce the risk of any unexpected accident occurring as there is a huge possibility that the grinder might turn on while you are removing the blade.
Step 2 – Remove Blade Guard
Many users forget to remove the blade guard while changing the abrasive disc on the angle grinder. It’s a mandatory step, making the blade easier to get off. A screwdriver is inserted into the top of the angle grinder, with an opening on one side. It is then turned to loosen the blade guard, or you may push the latch to release the blade guard. Once loosened, you can use your hands to pull it off from the disc. Just note that not all models are the same; some have latches instead of screws.
Step 3 – Press the Lock Button
While changing the angle grinder wheel, one must always press the blade lock button before starting up operation. A blade lock button is a safety option that helps prevent the accidental start-up of an angle grinder. It is located on the tool’s side, preventing the blade from spinning by locking it in place. In other words, it ensures that your hand will not get caught up in the rotating blades. Always check the wheel after pressing the lock button. If it fails to turn, it means the tool is locked successfully.
Step 4 – Turn Arbor Nut With the Wrench
Use the provided wrench to turn the arbor nut counterclockwise to prevent it from loosening. If it loosens, it can cause the tool to malfunction and cause damage. Most grinders come with a specific wrench along with prongs on them. A hole must be on each side of the arbor nut if your wrench contains prongs. Next, you must place the prongs in the holes to turn the arbor nut in the counterclockwise direction. Ultimately, you can use a vice grip to turn the arbor nut if you don’t have a factory-provided wrench.
Step 5 – Mount a New Blade
If you have removed the arbor nut and found the blade is stuck, use a flat-head screwdriver to lift the old blade. You can then gradually lift off the old abrasive disc after removing the arbor nut. Once the old blade is removed, you may install the new one correctly on the same axis. Lastly, don’t forget to reinsert the arbor nut with the help of the wrench or vice grip.
Types of Angle Grinder Blade
Angle grinders use different types of blades to remove material from the workpiece. The type of blade that is used depends on the workpiece being cut. Here are some common types of angle grinder discs with their different purposes.
Flap Disc
A flap disc is used to perform a blunt technique to smooth a rough metal surface. It is particularly used for cutting and grinding various metal, wood, and plastic materials.
Cut-off Wheel
This angle grinder disc removes material from a specific depth or length surface. It comes in various types, such as straight cut-off and crosscut wheels. Moreover, it contains a thin profile and a tapered edge that helps the tool to slice efficiently through forged metal.
Wire wheel
A wire wheel is used to perform finishing on the metal or to remove paint from metal surfaces without scratching the surface or damaging the original paint layer.
Ceramic Sanding Disc
This disc is designed to remove material by removing particles from the surface as it rotates. It is typically made out of ceramic material and referred to as a “sanding disc.”
Diamond Disc
This disc type is designed with enormous strength for cutting hard building materials like paving stones, blocks or bricks, and metals without heat damage. It typically has a diamond abrasive on one side and a steel abrasive on the other.
Conclusion
Although there are various angle grinder blades, their replacement method is the same. Hence, angle grinder blades are durable and can be replaced as soon as you observe visible signs of deformation. On the other hand, the angle grinder blade needs to be changed when it becomes too dull or when there are obvious chips or cracks. Fortunately, there is only one standard replacement method for all kinds of angle grinder blades.